Maternity Unit Artwork EOI

Project Overview

Objective

Albury Wodonga Health invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) from experienced artists to design and create an Artwork within the Maternity Unit in the main reception area within the Wodonga Hospital.

The artwork will be installed on a prominent wall behind the main desk and visible to patients, staff and visitors. This is a high traffic area and considered the first point of contact for many community members.

The aim is to create an artwork for the maternity services area that embodies the values and emotions expressed by consumers:

• calming, supportive,
• safe,
• hopeful,
• inspiring, and joyful.

The artwork should primarily evoke calm, as this was the most the frequent feedback from consumers.

Key Themes

• New Beginnings: Symbolise the start of life, motherhood, and family.
• Mother and Baby: Reflect the bond and nurturing experience.
• Local Area: Incorporate elements that represent our region, connecting the artwork to the community.
• Symbolic of Motherhood: Gentle, protective, and life-giving imagery.

Atmosphere & Experience

• The artwork should create a calm and welcoming environment, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of safety and hope.
• It should feel supportive and inspiring, celebrating the joy of new life and family.

Colour Palette

• Calm, warm tones with touches of colour for vibrancy.
• Avoid harsh contrasts; aim for soothing blends that feel natural and comforting.

Additional Considerations

• Representation of beginning of family as a central concept.
• Preference for a local artist to strengthen community connection.
• Artwork should be inclusive and timeless, appealing to diverse families.
• The artwork should be able to be relocated in the future, for this reason it is suggested that it be painted on canvas (or a similar product).
• The size of the work is 120cm by 300cm and would lend itself to a triptych.
• Budget $10,000 provided from donations to the Maternity department.

The Site

Location: Main desk Maternity Unit, within the Wodonga Hospital.

Primary User Group: Expectant parents, families and members of the community. Space Features: The Artwork will be the main backdrop to the reception area in the Maternity Department. Size: Wall Artwork Dimension: 120cm x 300 cm

Refer to full EOI document for images here.

Considerations

• The completed work is to be a work that can be relocated if needed in the future re development of services across AWH.
• Artwork must comply with all hospital safety and infection control requirements.
• The work should create a welcoming, safe, and friendly atmosphere that reduces stress and supports well-being.
• The work should be welcoming to all children and families, reflecting diversity and promoting a sense of belonging.

Budget

A total budget of $10,000 (excluding GST) has been allocated for this project, covering all artist fees, materials, equipment, travel, installation, and insurance.

The budget is structured as follows:

• Artist Fee: $5700
• Materials and Production Budget: $4300 for all materials, installation, and related costs

Financial Management

• The artist will manage the materials and production budget directly, sourcing materials, equipment, and services as required.
• The final contract will include:

1. A detailed final budget, including line items for artist fee, materials, equipment, production costs, and contingency
2. A fee schedule that separates the artist’s fee from the materials and production budget
3. A clause outlining expectations around identifying potential budget overruns, timely notification to the AWH representative, and use of the contingency if required

This ensures practical control for the artist while maintaining transparency and mutual protection for both parties.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to artists, arts organisations, and collectives who:

• Are eligible to work in Australia
• Hold a current ABN
• Have experience delivering public or healthcare-based artworks Preference may be given to artists located within the Ovens and Murray region.

Scope of Works

The selected artist will:

• Develop a site-responsive design aligned with the brief
• Supply all materials and equipment
• Prepare the surface for installation

Materials and Maintenance

• Materials must meet Australian Standards be durable, low-maintenance, washable, and suitable for clinical environments
• Artists are encouraged to use environmentally sustainable materials
• Techniques may include painting, stencilling, graphic design, or printed murals

Artistic Parameters

The work must:

• Be appropriate for children and families
• Avoid frightening, intense, or distressing imagery
• Avoid themes of illness, injury, or clinical procedures
• Avoid cluttered, chaotic, or overstimulating designs
• Not contain discriminatory, offensive, political, or commercial content
• Comply with AWH safety and infection control requirements

Fee Schedule

Payment will be made in two stages:

1. First payment (57%) – release of the agreed materials/production budget -$4,300
2. Final payment (43%) – remaining funds upon completion of the mural, after inspection and approval by Albury Wodonga Health- $5,700

Artist Responsibilities

The selected artist will:

• Manage delivery within schedule and budget
• Attend site visits and meetings
• Hold required insurance and certifications
• Complete induction requirements
• Comply with WHS standards
• Provide regular project updates to Albury Wodonga Health, including progress on design, installation, and budget status
• Provide a maintenance guide/schedule for the mural to support long-term care and durability

EOI Submission

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Criteria                                                                                                Weighting

Artistic merit, creativity, and integrity of the proposal                         40%

Relevant experience and portfolio of previous projects                        25%

Appropriateness of the design for the site and theme                           20%

Feasibility and practicality of the proposal                                          15%

Submission Requirements (this is essential)

• Written response to the project brief and theme (max. one page)
• Design concepts (sketches, images, or digital designs)
• Portfolio with images of previous murals or relevant projects
• Referee contact details
• Itemised budget
• Current police check

Selection Process

Following the close of the EOI period, the selection committee will review all submissions and invite one artist or group to undertake the project. The Art Committee will assess each proposal based on creativity, feasibility, and alignment with the project’s goals. Successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by [insert date].

The selected artist will enter into a formal agreement with Albury Wodonga Health, outlining responsibilities, deliverables, and expectations for both the design and installation phases of the project.

Timeline

• EOI opens: 28/3/2026
• Submissions due: 25/4/2026
• Successful artist notified: 31/5/2026
• Installation: Completed: 30/8/2026

Contact

For more information, please contact:

• Elaine Hill Chair – The AWH Art Committee

Email: Elaine.Hill@awh.org.au

Phone: 0448 144 422

Link to full EOI document here.